Mouton says while we are trying to figure out how to pay for holiday gifts, so are the criminals. Mouton says it is important to protect your credit cards, your valuables and yourself whether you are shopping at home or going out.

Mouton says it is easy for theives to work in groups to try to take your credit card number and code, your purse, wallet or other things of value. Mouton says he must always pay attention to the people and things around you that can take your attention away from protecting yourself.